Venezuela Braces for New Protests as Opposition Demands Fresh Election

Caracas, Venezuela – Venezuela is bracing for a new wave of protests on Tuesday, following a violent crackdown by security forces on Monday, which left four people dead and dozens injured. The opposition is demanding a fresh election, citing widespread fraud and intimidation during Sunday’s presidential election, which was won by incumbent President Nicolas Maduro.

The Organization of American States (OAS) has accused the government of “exceptional manipulation” of the election results, while the United Nations, United States, European Union, and several Latin American countries have called for a “transparent” process.

The opposition claims that Maduro’s victory was fraudulent, citing irregularities in the voting process and intimidation of voters. The opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado, has called for a peaceful transition of power and urged supporters to turn out for “popular assemblies” nationwide.

Meanwhile, Maduro’s government has reported 23 wounded military personnel and assured that the president has the “absolute loyalty and unconditional support” of the armed forces. The Defense Ministry has also reported that 749 “criminals” have been arrested during the protests and face charges of resisting authority or terrorism.

The opposition has accused the government of using violence and intimidation to suppress dissent, and has called for international observers to monitor the situation. The United States has condemned the violence and has called for a new election.

The situation in Venezuela remains volatile, with fears of further violence and bloodshed. The opposition has vowed to continue protesting until their demands are met, while the government has vowed to maintain order and stability.

Photos:

• Protesters cheering as they topple a statue of former President Hugo Chavez in Calabozo, Venezuela, on July 29, 2024.
• Demonstrators setting up a barricade during a protest against the government in Valencia, Carabobo state, Venezuela.
• A man banging a cooking pot during a protest against the government in Valencia, Carabobo state, Venezuela.

Timeline:

• Sunday, July 28, 2024: Presidential election held in Venezuela, with incumbent President Nicolas Maduro winning the election.
• Monday, July 29, 2024: Protests erupt across Venezuela, with security forces cracking down on protesters, leaving four people dead and dozens injured.
• Tuesday, July 30, 2024: Opposition plans to hold new protests, demanding a fresh election and a peaceful transition of power.

Background:

• Venezuela has been plagued by economic crisis, political instability, and human rights abuses under Maduro’s leadership.
• The country has been subject to US sanctions, which have severely impacted its economy.
• The opposition has accused the government of using violence and intimidation to suppress dissent and maintain power.